Thousands Attend Fire and EMS Safety Fest
This year’s Safety Fest at Alton Baker Park, organized by the Fire & EMS Department’s Water Rescue Team, was again a rousing success as thousands of area residents took advantage of the opportunity to see safety demonstrations and exhibits and participate in the event’s many activities. Approximately 600 life jackets and 1,200 bike helmets were given to young people. State Rep. Nancy Nathanson made a ceremonial presentation as part of the life jacket giveaway. The hours and scope of the event were reduced this year as the Fire & EMS Department was not in a position to absorb overtime costs that had been associated with past safety festivals (Saturday’s was the ninth annual), but corporate and government cosponsors made it possible to continue the tradition. In particular, the department would like to thank KVAL-TV, the Weyerhaeuser Corporation Foundation, Sanipac, Bi-Mart, Les Schwab, and Hamilton Construction Company for their contributions. Other participants included the Citizen Emergency Response Team, Lane County Sherriff’s Posse, Lane County Fire Co-Op, and Northwest Youth Corps. Despite the long lines, appearances indicated that a good time was had by all. Attendance was estimated at 3,000 to 5,000. For more information, please contact Cinimint Harper at Fire & EMS, 682-7120.
